The 5.3 mile Central Rail Line originally opened in 1994 and is Denver's first light rail line running from I-25/Broadway, through downtown Denver, and along Welton Street to 30th/Downing.

The Central Rail Extension (CRE), as part of FasTracks, will connect existing downtown light rail service with the planned 38th/Blake Station on the East Rail Line alignment. The recommended alternative for the CRE includes in-traffic rail transit operations. Service will be provided by a fleet of single light rail vehicles that complete round trip service between downtown Denver and the 38th/Blake Station. The recommended alternative for the CRE includes two new stops at 33rd/Downing and 35th/Downing.